Tinubu mourns Joop Berkhout, hails legacy in Nigerian literature

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Joop Berkhout, a renowned publisher and naturalised Nigerian who contributed to the country’s literary landscape for over six decades.

Berkhout, who died at the age of 94, was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s publishing industry. He held leadership roles managing director of Evans Brothers and Spectrum Books Limited before founding and chairing Safari Books Limited, where he remained active even after retiring in 2008.

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In a statement issued on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, his special adviser on information and strategy, Tinubu described Berkhout as more than a businessman, highlighting his deep connection to Nigeria’s culture, which earned him the chieftaincy title of Okun Borode of Ile-Ife.

“Chief Berkhout lived a remarkable life in Nigeria. He was a doyen of publishing for over 50 years, shaping the industry and inspiring many Nigerian writers.

“He immersed himself in our culture and tradition such that he bagged a chieftaincy title as Okun Borode of Ile-Ife. Though he hailed from the Netherlands, his heart belonged wholly to Nigeria,” Tinubu said.

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The president extended his condolences to Berkhout’s family in Nigeria and the Netherlands, as well as to the wider literary community.

“May his soul find eternal rest, and may his family draw strength from his legacy,” he added.